Living in Portugal vs in Spain
Portugal and Spain are neighbors but offer different experiences. Portugal has surged in popularity in recent years, while Spain remains a safe bet.
Monthly budget
Indicative data in euros. Prices vary by lifestyle and city.
| Category | | |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | 1200 - 1600 € | 1500 - 2000 € |
| Mid-range | 1800 - 2500 € | 2200 - 3000 € |
| Comfortable | 3000 - 4500 € | 3500 - 5000 € |
Housing
Spain has become cheaper than Portugal in some cities. Valencia: 500-800 euros, Seville: 450-750 euros. Lisbon: 700-1,200 euros, Porto: 500-900 euros. Portugal has seen rents skyrocket.
Food
Slightly cheaper in Spain. Both countries offer exceptional Mediterranean cuisine. Portugal excels in seafood, Spain in tapas and jamon.
Visa and residence
Both offer digital nomad visas. The Portuguese Golden Visa (reformed) and Spanish non-lucrative visa are popular options. Spain has had a digital nomad visa since 2023.
Climate
Similar climate with an advantage to southern Spain for warmth. Portugal benefits from a milder oceanic climate on the coast.
Verdict: Spain has become slightly more affordable than Portugal. Portugal remains attractive for its human scale and tech community. Spain offers more geographic and cultural diversity.
Other comparisons
Explore more destinations side by side.
